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^S™! HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES {^^g^ 



EDWARD EVERETT ROBBINS 

(Late a Representative from Pennsylvania) 



MEMORIAL ADDRESSES 






DELIVERED IN THE 

HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES 

OF THE UNITED STATES 

SIXTY-FIFTH CONGRESS 
THIRD SESSION 



Proceedings in the House 
February 16, 1919 



Proceedings in the Senate 
January 27, 1919 



PREPARED UNDER THE DIRECTION OF 
THE JOINT COMMITTEE ON PRINTING 







WASHINGTON 
1919 







n* ox *. 

JAN 28 1923 



TABLE OF CONTENTS 



Proceedings in the House . 5 

Prayer by Rev. Henry N. Couden, D. D 7 

Memorial addresses by — 

Mr. Thomas §. Crago, tff Pennsylvania 9 

Mr. Henry W. Watson, of Pennsylvania 16 

Mr. J. Hampton Moore, of Pennsylvania 18 

Mr. Henry A. Clark, of Pennsylvania 21 

Mr. John M. Rose, of Pennsylvania 23 

Mr. William H. Stafford, of Wisconsin 28 

Proceedings in the Senate 31 



[3] 



DEATH OF HON. EDWARD EVERETT ROBBINS 



Proceedings in the House of Representatives 

Saturday, January 25, 1919. 

Mr. Moore of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, for the Penn- 
sylvania delegation it becomes my sad duty to announce 
the death of our colleague, Hon. Edward Everett Robbins, 
and in that connection I send up to the Clerk's desk to be 
read the following resolutions. 

The Speaker. The Clerk will report the resolutions. 

The Clerk read as follows : 

Resolved, That the House has heard with profound sorrow of 
the death of the Hon. Edward Everett Robbins, a Representative 
from the State of Pennsylvania. 

Resolved, That a committee of 34 Members of the House, with 
such Members of the Senate as may be joined, be appointed to 
attend the funeral. 

Resolved, That the Sergeant at Arms of the House be authorized 
and directed to take such steps as may be necessary for carrying 
out the provisions of these resolutions, and that the necessary 
expenses in connection therewith be paid out of the contingent 
fund of the House. 

Resolved, That the Clerk communicate these resolutions to the 
Senate and transmit a copy thereof to the family of the deceased. 

The question was taken, and the resolutions were unani- 
mously agreed to. 

The Speaker. The Clerk will announce the committee. 
The Clerk read as follows: 

William S. Vare, George S. Graham, J. Hampton Moore, George 
W. Edmonds, Peter E. Costello, George P. Darrow, Thomas S. 
Butler, Henry W. Watson, William W. Griest, John R. Farr, 
Thomas W. Templeton, Robert D. Heaton, Arthur G. Dewalt, Louis 

• 
[5] 



Memorial Addresses: Representative Robbins 

T. McFadden, Edgar R. Kiess, John V. Lesher, Benjamin K. Focht, 
Aaron S. Kreider, John M. Rose, Andrew R. Brodbeck, Charles H. 
Rowland, Bruce F. Sterling, Henry W. Temple, Henry A. Clark, 
Henry J. Steele, Nathan L. Strong, Earl H. Beshlin, Stephen G. 
Porter, M. Clyde Kelly, John M. Morin, Guy E. Campbell, Thomas 
S. Crago, Mahlon M. Garland, and Joseph McLaughlin. 

The Speaker. The Clerk will read the additional reso- 
lution. 

The Clerk read as follows: 

Resolved, That as a further mark of respect this House do now 
adjourn. 

The resolution was agreed to; accordingly (at 3 o'clock 
and 41 minutes p. m.) the House adjourned until Sunday, 
January 26, at 12 o'clock noon. 

Tuesday, January 28, 1919. 
A message from the Senate, by Mr. Waldorf, its enroll- 
ing clerk, announced that the Senate had passed the fol- 
lowing resolutions: 

Senate resolution 430 

Resolved, That the Senate has heard with profound sorrow the 
announcement of the death of the Hon. Edward Everett Robbins, 
late a Representative from the State of Pennsylvania. 

Resolved, That a committee of seven Senators be appointed by 
the Vice President to join the committee appointed on the part of 
the House of Representatives to attend the funeral of the deceased. 

Resolved, That the Secretary communicate a copy of these reso- 
lutions to the House of Representatives. 

Resolved, That as a further mark of respect to the memory of 
the deceased the Senate do now adjourn. 

And that the Vice President, under the second resolu- 
tion, had appointed Mr. Penrose, Mr. King, Mr. Overman, 
Mr. Warren, Mr. Baird, Mr. Thompson, and Mr. Knox as 
said committee on the part of the Senate. 



[6] 



Proceedings in the House 



Monday, February 3, 1919. 

Mr. Crago. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent for 
the present consideration of the following, which I send 
to the Clerk's desk. 

The Speaker. The Clerk will report it. 

The Clerk read as follows : 

Mr. Crago asks unanimous consent that Sunday, February 16, 
1919, be set apart for addresses on the life, character, and public 
services of the Hon. Edward E. Robbins, late a Representative from 
the State of Pennsylvania. 

The Speaker. Is there objection? 
There was no objection. 

Sunday, February 16, 1919. 

The House met at 12 o'clock noon and was called to 
order by the Speaker pro tempore [Mr. Butler]. 

The Chaplain, Rev. Henry N. Couden, D. D., offered the 
following prayer: 

Eternal God, our Heavenly Father! 

That God, which ever lives and loves, 

One God, one law, one element, 

And one far-off divine event, 
To which the whole creation moves, 

We thank Thee that the door of the holy of holies is 
ever open to Thy children, where they can commune with 
Thee, find inspiration to guide them in the duties of life, 
consolation for their sorrows, solace for the loss of loved 
ones, and everlasting hope. 

We meet here to-day in memory of four great men who 
wrought on the floor of this House for their constituents, 
their respective States, and the Nation they loved. 

May those who knew them best speak from their hearts, 
that their records may be left in the archives of the Nation 



[7] 



Memorial Addresses: Representative Robbins 

they loved; that others may read and be inspired with 
patriotism and devotion. 

Comfort those who knew and loved them with the 
eternal hope that sometime, somewhere, they shall meet 
them in a land where partings shall be no more and love 
shall find its own; and everlasting praise be Thine, 
through Him who demonstrated that life is stronger than 
death. Amen. 

The Speaker pro tempore. The Clerk will report the 
next order. 

The Clerk read as follows : 

On motion of Mr. Crago, by unanimous consent, 
Ordered, That Sunday, February 16, 1919, be set apart for ad- 
dresses upon the life, character, and public services of Hon. 
Edward E. Robbins, late a Representative from the State of Penn- 
sylvania. 

Mr. Crago. Mr. Speaker, I present the following resolu- 
tions which I send to the Clerk's desk and ask for their 
immediate consideration. 

The Speaker pro tempore. The Clerk will report the 
resolutions. 

The Clerk read as follows : 

Resolved, That the business of the House be now suspended, that 
opportunity may be given for tributes to the memory of Hon. 
Edward E. Robbins, late a Member of this House from the State of 
Pennsylvania. 

Resolved, That as a particular mark of respect to the memory of 
the deceased, and in recognition of his distinguished public career, 
the House, at the conclusion of the exercises of this day, shall 
stand adjourned. 

Resolved, That the Clerk communicate these resolutions to the 
Senate. 

Resolved, That the Clerk send a copy of these resolutions to the 
family of the deceased. 

The question was taken, and the resolutions were unani- 
mously agreed to. 

[8] 



MEMORIAL ADDRESSES 



Address of Mr. Crago, of Pennsylvania 

Mr. Speaker: In the closing days of the last session of 
a Congress which will go down in history as probably 
the most momentous Congress in our Nation's existence 
we pause for a few hours to record our estimate and 
appreciation of the life and public career of one of our 
number who in the very midst of his public service and 
days of usefulness answered the summons— lights out; 
rest; eternal rest. 

Col. Edward Everett Robbins, a Representative of the 
twenty-second district of Pennsylvania in the Sixty-fifth 
Congress, who had been reelected as a Member of the 
Sixty-sixth Congress, died at Somerset, Pa., Saturday, 
January 25, 1919. 

Owing to the fact that I have enjoyed a personal ac- 
quaintance with Col. Robbins extending over a period of 
more than a quarter of a century, I have deemed it proper 
to embrace in my remarks a short record, giving dates, 
where possible, of some of the important events in his life. 
Col. Robbins was born on a farm near Robbins Station, 
Westmoreland County, Pa., September 27, 1861. His 
father was Joseph Robbins and his mother Margaret 
Christy Robbins, whose ancestors had settled there dur- 
ing the early years of the existence of Westmoreland 
County. He spent his early life on his father's farm, at- 
tending the public school. Later he attended the Elders 
Ridge Academy, the Indiana State Normal School, and 
Washington and Jefferson College, from which college 
he graduated in the class of 1881. At the time of his 
death he was a trustee of this famous institution of learn- 

[9] 



Memorial Addresses: Representative Robbins 

ing. After graduation from college he took a course in 
law in the Columbian Law School, New York, and then 
entered the law office of John F. Wentling, one of the 
most prominent members of the Westmoreland County 
bar. A few years later he was admitted as a member of 
this bar, where he practiced the profession of law until 
the time of his death. 

Soon after his admission to the bar Mr. Robbins began 
to take an active interest in politics, and soon was made 
the nominee of his party for district attorney. He was a 
Republican, believing thoroughly in the principles and 
policies of his party. In 1888 he was elected a member 
of the Pennsylvania State senate for the regular term of 
four years, and here he may be said to have begun his 
political career. After completing his term as senator 
he resumed the practice of law, but in 1896 he became 
the nominee of his party for Representative in Congress 
from what was then the twenty-fifth district and was 
elected a Member of the Fifty-fifth Congress. From this 
time until he was again elected to Congress, in 1916, he 
always took an active part in political affairs and during 
the campaigns was often called upon to preside at meet- 
ings and make addresses for his party and its candidates. 
In 1916 he was nominated as the Republican candidate 
in the twenty-second district, composed of the counties of 
Westmoreland and Rutler, and was elected to that office 
by a large majority. Soon after taking his seat he began 
to take an active part in the work of this body. He was 
constant in his attendance at the sessions of the House 
and followed closely all the matters under consideration. 
He was ever alert and active, watching every bill which 
could in any way affect his district and State. His knowl- 
edge of the people and the business interests of his dis- 
trict made it possible for him to render efficient service; 
and few Members worked longer hours and gave greater 



[10] 



Address of Mr. Crago, of Pennsylvania 



thought to their duties than did Col. Robbins. He was 
renominated as his party candidate for the Sixty-sixth 
Congress without opposition and at the general election 
was elected by a largely increased majority. 

In 1887 Col. Robbins enlisted as a private in Company I, 
Tenth Regiment, National Guard of Pennsylvania. In 
1889 he was appointed by Col. A. L. Hawkins as quarter- 
master of the regiment, with the rank of first lieutenant; 
it was while serving in this capacity during the Homestead 
strike in 1892 that my personal acquaintance with Col. 
Robbins began, and this acquaintance and personal as- 
sociation has continued all these years. In 1894 he was 
appointed quartermaster of the Second Brigade, with the 
rank of major, on the staff of Brig. Gen. John A. Wiley. 
While serving in this capacity he answered the call of the 
President in 1898 and reported with his brigade at Mount 
Gretna, Pa. 

When the Pennsylvania National Guard was mustered 
into the service no officer above the rank of colonel was 
mustered in, and as a result the brigade and division staff 
officers were not taken into the Federal service. 

Gen. Wiley was, however, later commissioned by Presi- 
dent McKinley as a brigadier general of Volunteers, and 
Col. Robbins, then a Member of Congress, offered his serv- 
ices and was commissioned as captain and assigned to 
duty as quartermaster of the First Brigade, Third Division, 
First Army Corps, Chickamauga, Ga., on the staff of his 
old brigade commander, Gen. Wiley. He was promoted 
to major and sent to Porto Rico, and later to Cuba as 
quartermaster of the U. S. transport Seneca, and served 
in Porto Rico and Cuba until the end of the war. Soon 
after being mustered out of the United States service, 
when the National Guard of Pennsylvania was reorgan- 
ized, he was appointed quartermaster general of the Penn- 
sylvania Division, with the rank of colonel. In this posi- 



[11] 



Memorial Addresses: Representative Robbins 

tion he served for several years, and then severed his 
connection with the National Guard and, while always 
interested in military affairs, he never again took an 
active part as a member of any military organization. 
Being admitted to the Westmoreland County bar in 
1886, while holding public office and positions of trust 
in business affairs, Col. Robbins continued the practice of 
his profession, and at the time of his death was a member 
of the law firm of Robbins & Wyatt. That he was held 
in high esteem both as a man and a lawyer the senti- 
ments expressed by the speakers at a meeting of the 
Westmoreland Bar Association attest. Judge Cope- 
land said of him : 

He lived an active, deedful life, and died while yet the future 
beckoned to him with the alluring promise of future work and 
success. He had the good fortune to be born in the country. The 
distractions of the town and city are there lacking, and a boy thus 
becomes acquainted with himself and becomes sensible of the 
great mysterious world within himself before the attractions of 
the outer world make their appeal to him. He practiced law, 
served in the State senate, served twice in Congress, had experi- 
ence in military life. He was engaged in the coal business, the 
banking business, and numerous enterprises, and in all he strenu- 
ously sought to excel. 

Mr. Albert H. Bell said of him : 

That 35 years of rather close association with him, beginning in 
our student days, had cemented a friendship between us that 
neither political differences nor the most heated conflicts in pro- 
fessional life had ever weakened. This intimate, early association 
with Mr. Robbins gave an insight into his inner life and character 
which has rescued me from the error of misjudgment of him and 
has kept the taper on the altar of our friendship burning with 
steady light at times when he was assailed by the fiercest storms 
of his political and professional life. 

He had a mind of fine natural endowment. He could perceive 
quickly, assimilate readily, reason correctly, and reach convictions 
that he could express with force and vigor. He was a man of tire- 
less industry. 

[12] 



Address of Mr. Crago, of Pennsylvania 

The practice of law by one who gives his whole life to 
it is not always attended with great financial returns, and 
thus it is that many practitioners of the law turn their 
thoughts to some line of business which promises greater 
financial returns. Living in a section of the country rich 
in mineral wealth, chiefly bituminous coal, and being as- 
sociated closely with men engaged in the production of 
coal, Col. Robbins became interested in coal mining and 
bought much undeveloped coal land. To this work he 
brought that same energy and perseverance which had 
brought him success in other lines, and he succeeded in 
accumulating a sufficient amount of wealth to make it 
possible for him to live well and maintain a family in 
every comfort, and this phase of his life made his work 
in Congress a pleasure, for while he continued some of his 
business connections they were so organized that he did 
not need to give them much personal attention, and he 
thus could give himself unreservedly to the work of Con- 
gress. 

He was a Presbyterian in his religious affiliation, being 
a member of the First Presbyterian Church, of Greens- 
burg, Pa. 

He was vice president and director of the Safe Deposit 
& Trust Co., of Greensburg; a member of the Westmore- 
land Country Club, the Americus Republican and the 
Athletic Clubs of Pittsburgh, and the Elks Club of Greens- 
burg. 

The history of Westmoreland County, Pa., is rich with 
important events of our development as a Nation. In 
marking locations and preserving the evidences of this 
early period the people of the county have taken a great 
interest. In this work Col. Robbins took an active part, 
and on different occasions he has made historical ad- 
dresses in dedicating memorials erected to mark the loca- 
tions where events of world moment happened more than 
a century and a half ago. 

[13] 



Memorial Addresses: Representative Robbins 

Col. Robbins had been practicing law for ten years, had 
served in the State senate of Pennsylvania for four years, 
and had established at least a State-wide reputation when 
he was married, in 1896, to Luella Stauffer Moore, of 
Greensburg, Pa. To this union two sons, Edward E., jr., 
and William M., were born. Both the sons and Mrs. 
Robbins survive Col. Robbins and mourn the loss of a 
father and husband whose home and family were to him 
a constant joy and a place which ever had for him the 
real meaning of the word " home." His domestic life was 
ideal, and, after all, when we recall the triumph in busi- 
ness, in politics, in social life, and all the other activities 
of society, the one place where there is perfect accord, 
where there is real happiness, where life is really lived, 
is the happy old-fashioned American home, where, free 
from the struggles, safe from the flings and stings of those 
with whom we have contended, a man can plan and pur- 
pose for those he holds most dear and know that in that 
charmed circle every heart beats in sympathy with his 
own, and there he can renew the strength which carries 
him through life's never-ending struggle. 

To-day we mourn the loss of a trusted associate taken 
away in the full vigor of life, when for him there seemed 
to be in store many years of useful service. His family 
can hardly realize that the one to whom they looked for 
guidance in every crisis is no more. Business men, pro- 
fessional men, strong men in every walk of life mourn 
his departure and realize that he filled a place, gained by 
his own indomitable energy and will, which will be dim- 
cult to fill. Here in the presence of death all enmity and 
discord cease, and through the gloom men look out on 
life with a new realization that no one can know nor 
foretell the hour when through the twilight and the dark 
we swiftly pass from this to endless life. 



[14] 



Address of Mr. Grago, of Pennsylvania 

Citizen, soldier, business man, statesman, father, hus- 
band, friend, the record is written and well written; and 
on memory's altar will ever glow a wealth of love and 
affection for one who through life was loyal to home and 
country and measured up to the full stature of man. 

How well he fell asleep! 

Like some proud river widening toward the sea; 
Calmly and grandly, silently and deep, 

Life joined eternity. 

Gone, the light and glory of the day, 

Here, the solemn silence of the night, 
There, the faith that ever leads the way, 

Faith which visions endless light. 



[15] 



Address of Mr. Watson, of Pennsylvania 

Mr. Speaker: We assemble to pay tribute to our col- 
leagues whose lives were closely linked with the war Con- 
gresses and who recently passed from human mystery to 
Divine understanding. Each in his way performed his 
duty as he believed to be right, each rendered valuable 
service to his country, each left affectionate recollections 
in our hearts. 

I speak more particularly of my friend and fellow col- 
league of Pennsylvania, who faithfully and conscien- 
tiously represented his district in formulating the laws 
of our Republic. 

He was a student of economic questions, familiar with 
the polite literature of all ages, a man of acute knowledge 
of the industries of his State, which he jealously guarded, 
a learned lawyer of wide experience, a banker of keen 
perception, a soldier who rendered important military 
service to the Nation during the Spanish War. 

Life in the abstract is one chain fettered together by 
human conception — men die but their minds live, thus 
civilization moves onward. There is no limit to the intel- 
lectual development of the human mind; the mind is 
God's will, the mind never dies, thus society progresses 
through the unbroken chain of the mentality of man. 

Men are singled by nature with positive powers to 
evolve new thoughts, new ideas for the benefit of the 
world, leaving in their wills a heritage to all mankind. 
Why one is born to power and another to live in obscurity 
is a secret that rests with Providence. 

Edward E. Robbins was an indefatigable worker; his 
mind was being daily repaired by diligent application. 

[16] 



Address of Mr. Watson, of Pennsylvania 

He had strong logical powers and exercised them in de- 
bate. He studied legislation with attention and deep 
thought. He had high regard for virtue. His opinions 
were mastered by lofty ideas. He gave his talents in the 
interest of the public good for peace and concord. 

Simplicity always prevails in a noble nature. This trait 
of character governed his policies. He swayed an influ- 
ence of leadership. Thus recognized, he was called to 
positions of trust in the religious, social, political, and 
business activities of his home town. He had the welfare 
of the Government at heart, never wavering from his 
convictions. He was a patriot persuaded by truth and 
reason. 

We are born to die, then live again immortal in the 
kingdom which has no end, a kingdom of glory and of 
peace. So our colleague passed on to immortality. 



116942°— 19 2 [17] 



Address of Mr. Moore, of Pennsylvania 

Mr. Speaker: An early training in western Pennsyl- 
vania, where he was born, rounded out at the Columbia 
Law School, in New York, equipped our colleague, the 
late Edward Everett Robbins, on return to his home in 
Westmoreland County to practice law. The young man 
had been a member of the bar for the short period of 
two years, however, before the people sent him to the 
State senate of Pennsylvania. There is no better stepping 
stone to the councils of the Nation than that afforded by 
the State legislature. Well grounded, both in theory and 
practice, with the experience which one must necessarily 
acquire in the senate of the second State of the Union, 
it was logical that the aggressive young lawyer and State 
senator should advance to the Congress of the United 
States. This he did upon election from the old twenty- 
first district, now the twenty-second, in 1896. He was 
35 years of age when he reached this body. That was 
before the Spanish-American War. It so happened along 
with his other activities that Mr. Robbins had taken a 
deep interest in the affairs of the National Guard of Penn- 
sylvania. He enlisted as a private in the famous Tenth 
Infantry in 1887, and aided in the upbuilding of that or- 
ganization, the personnel of which has figured so credit- 
ably in the war in Europe, until 1894, when he had at- 
tained the rank of major. 

We have often heard with patriotic pride of the Muhlen- 
bergs and the Bakers, who having been in Congress when 
war broke out departed from these legislative halls to 
don the military uniform for active service, and it is a 
source of gratification to-day that we can point to Mem- 
bers of the present House who yielded up their service 

[18] 



Address of Mr. Moore, of Pennsylvania 

here for actual service at the front. It is no less a matter 
of satisfaction, exemplifying the patriotic alertness of 
our departed colleague, to know that he is entitled to 
rank with those who made this noble sacrifice. At the 
outbreak of the Spanish-American War, in 1898, he quit 
the Fifty-fifth Congress to enter the military service as a 
volunteer. I shall not give in detail the record he then 
made, except to say that in various capacities, his useful- 
ness and serviceability constantly increasing, he held on 
to the end of the war, being mustered out as a major. 
Subsequently, in 1900, the governor of Pennsylvania con- 
ferred upon him the rank of colonel and made him quar- 
termaster general of the National Guard of Pennsylvania. 

Col. Robbins returned to Washington for the Sixty-fifth 
Congress. He had devoted himself during the interim to 
his law business, to mining, and banking, and other com- 
mercial pursuits, for which he seemed thoroughly well 
adapted. It was apparent upon his reentering Congress 
that the intervening years had broadened his mind and 
increased his power to serve the people. 

He was here when a state of war was declared against 
Germany. His practical experience with respect to army 
organization gave to his views upon such war problems 
as came before the Congress a special significance. To 
some extent also he specialized upon mining problems, 
particularly those relating to the fuel supply and the 
acquisition of minerals needed for war purposes. He was 
a student of all legal problems. It was his practice to 
watch bills relating to the judiciary and to methods of 
procedure in the courts. Probably no Member devoted 
himself more assiduously to Supreme Court opinions as 
they affected the interpretation of statutes. It was notice- 
able that Col. Robbins was jealous of the integrity of the 
lawmaking power. 

Mr. Speaker, in this great body of 435 picked men, com- 
ing as they do from every corner of the Nation and repre- 

[19] 



Memorial Addresses: Representative Robbins 

senting views sometimes so divergent as to excite our 
special admiration of the national unity which prevails, it 
is difficult for one man to advance far ahead of his fel- 
lows. It is only by the closest application and the strictest 
adherence to details and to duty that this can be done. 
Those who have risen in influence and leadership have 
not ordinarily done so through mere popularity; nor is 
ability without application the talisman. Col. Robbins 
evidently knew all this as a result of his earlier experience 
in the House. It is not clear that he aspired to leadership, 
but it is known to all his surviving colleagues that he was 
gradually attaining a position amongst his fellows here 
that commanded their respect and confidence. 

His industry and his attainments counted for much, but 
his close study of details, the thoroughness with which he 
went at his work, the regularity of his attendance, the 
readiness with which he participated in debate, all tended 
to prove that he was one of the strong men in council and 
that the day was not far off when he would be recognized 
as one of the Nation's leaders. 

But, Mr. Speaker, as we have so often observed, it is not 
for us to question the taking off of those of our colleagues 
who are called in their prime. In the case of Col. Robbins, 
whom we knew so well and esteemed so much, we may 
wonder, we may even ask, if there be another who can 
fill his place. Our hearts may be heavy with the thought 
that what was builded so high in our hopes for him is 
so suddenly and so ruthlessly shattered. We may sympa- 
thize with the bereaved ones and let out to them the emo- 
tions that afflict our souls. This we may do as a duty we 
owe to the memory of our colleague, to those he loved, 
and to ourselves. But we can not overcome the inevitable. 
We must " carry on," even as did our lamented colleague, 
doing the best we know how, serving faithfully as he did, 
until " taps " sound for us as they did for him. 



[20] 



Address of Mr. Clark, of Pennsylvania 

Mr. Speaker : Edward Everett Robbins was born, reared, 
educated, lived, worked, and passed away in the State of 
his nativity, Pennsylvania. The hurrying months have 
come and gone until the circle of two years has been well- 
nigh completed since first we met here. Meanwhile death 
has invaded our membership all too frequently, and but 
recently it has " laid its pallid hand upon the strong man " 
and the strong man " is fallen and the flashing eye is 
dim." Whenever a friend or a relative is taken away men 
are accustomed to pause for a short time from their daily 
activities, some mourn in silence, some give expression to 
the sad sighing of their hearts in words of sorrow that 
fall from their lips, and some there are who for a moment 
reflect upon the significance of birth, the meaning of life, 
and the mystery of death. And yet the problem remains 
unsolved. Whenever a colleague or an associate or one 
who has attained distinction passes away there rises a 
duty which the living owe to the dead. In the discharge of 
that duty, solemn as it is, we are met here this day. 
Edward Everett Robbins was my office neighbor. He 
came from my State. He was my associate upon the floor 
of this House. He knew many of my acquaintances. We 
have strolled the streets of this city together at different 
times. We have exchanged views upon important pend- 
ing legislation and on varied subjects. He was my friend. 
I grew to know the man, his methods, his purposes, his 
opinions, and his worth. His education, his wide range of 
duties in civil life, his military experience, his participa- 
tion in the halls of legislation of his State and his country 
gave him a great fund of information of inestimable value 
in equipping him for the serious work upon which he 
entered when this Congress convened. 

[21] 



Memorial Addresses: Representative Robbins 

He brought to the investigation of any subject under 
consideration a trained mind. His arguments were logi- 
cal, forceful, his statements concise, and his judgments 
sound, his mental processes were rapid, his industry in- 
tense, his integrity was unquestioned, his character above 
reproach, and that, after all, is the best asset a man can 
have. He was resolute and firm in his convictions. His 
reputation was not confined to the boundaries of his own 
district; it extended far beyond. He was a most potent 
factor in the deliberations of the House and a command- 
ing personality therein. His voice, his wisdom, his judg- 
ment, and his experience will be greatly missed in the 
solutions of those perplexing and vexing military, eco- 
nomic, and social problems which have already risen 
above the horizon of our national life. Some men like so 
to live that when they have gone they will be held in loving 
remembrance by those whom they have left behind; some 
there are who like so to work that when the last dread 
summons comes they may know that the influence and the 
results of good deeds wrought here may be projected far 
into the future. Our colleague has secured both of these. 
He lived as though he were to die to-morrow, and he 
worked as though he were to live forever. His labors are 
finished, his life is ended, the door was open, he crossed 
its threshold; he is absent but not forgotten. 



[22] 



Address of Mr. Rose, of Pennsylvania 

Mr. Speaker : This day has been set apart to pay tribute 
to the life and character of Edward Everett Robbins, late 
Representative from the twenty-second congressional dis- 
trict of Pennsylvania. 

My acquaintance with the deceased extended over a 
period of many years, beginning with our student life in 
Washington and Jefferson College, from which Mr. Rob- 
bins graduated in the year 1881, and later was selected as 
a trustee of that institution, and was such at the time of his 
death. At no time was there a suggestion of a difference 
in our friendly relations. 

Following his graduation from Washington and Jef- 
ferson College, he took a special course in the Columbia 
Law School, of New York City, and was admitted to the 
bar of Westmoreland County in the year 1886, and shortly 
thereafter enlisted in the National Guard of Pennsylvania 
as a private in Company I, Tenth Regiment Infantry, and 
subsequently was engaged in the Spanish-American War, 
doing service in Porto Rico and Cuba, and because of 
special and noteworthy service rendered was advanced to 
offices of trust and honor in his command and gained and 
maintained the confidence of all who were under his 
authority. The death of Congressman Robbins marks the 
first among the Members of Congress who served in the 
Spanish-American War. 

My association with Mr. Robbins following his gradua- 
tion was at no time close, and for that reason I do not have 
first-hand knowledge of the many political struggles 
through which he passed in his native county before his 
recognition as one of the leaders in the party of his choice 
in the section of the State where he resided. 



[23] 



Memorial Addresses: Representative Robbins 

He was engaged in every political contest of note in his 
city and county and always contended earnestly and 
openly for the candidate of his choice and made all of his 
fights in the open, and as a result bitterness was engen- 
dered at times, but through it all my friend always ob- 
served the amenities of life and emerged from every con- 
test with his record for fairness maintained. 

My first association with him, after our graduation from 
college, was at Harrisburg, Pa., at the time of his election 
as senator by the voters of his native county in the year 
1888, and I observed his course with a great deal of in- 
terest, as he early evinced an aptitude for legislative work 
and gave every promise of being further honored by the 
people whom he served. His ability soon carved a place 
for him and brought early recognition from his large con- 
stituency, who at a later period showered him with yet 
greater honors. 

In the year 1896 he was elected to the Fifty-fifth Con- 
gress and at that time showed great familiarity with the 
tariff legislation of the country and was engaged in many 
colloquies upon the subject of the tariff with the Hon. 
John Dalzell, one of the acknowledged leaders in the 
lower branch of the Congress at that time, and in all of 
which Mr. Robbins lost nothing by comparison. 

He left the Fifty-fifth Congress to aid his country in the 
Spanish-American War, and, upon being mustered out, 
resumed the practice of the law in Greensburg, Pa., and 
achieved high distinction at the bar of his native county, a 
bar which is admittedly one of the strongest and best in 
the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. 

His clientage was large, and we find him taking part in 
many of the leading cases which occupied the attention 
of the courts of his county and in the appellate courts of 
the State. 

In addition to the arduous duties devolving upon Mr. 
Robbins as a lawyer, and in which profession he was a 

[24] 



Address of Mr. Rose, of Pennsylvania 

pronounced success, he was also signally prosperous as a 
coal operator, banker, and financier, and enjoyed great 
popularity among the people of his native county, a popu- 
larity gained by close application to his duties, fair deal- 
ing, and a profound sense of honor. 

His private and public life was above reproach, an in- 
heritance which can not be measured in words, and which 
should and will be highly prized by his immediate family 
and those acquainted with his appreciation of a high sense 
of duty and rugged honesty. 

His zeal and energy were unbounded, and as a mark of 
esteem and confidence in his integrity and lofty purposes 
he was chosen to succeed himself in the Sixty-sixth Con- 
gress by a majority decidedly pleasing and gratifying to 
him and his many friends. To the work of the next Con- 
gress he had planned to devote all of his time and effort, 
and it is not too much to say that with the splendid record 
already made and the work done by him during the ses- 
sions of the present Congress he would have taken his 
place among the acknowledged leaders in this branch 
of the Congress. Unless unavoidably absent Mr. Robbins 
was always found in his seat at every session of the 
Congress, and gave the closest attention to every bill 
brought before the House for consideration, and showed 
a familiarity with the merits or demerits of any proposi- 
tion which claimed the attention of those of you who have 
seen long service in this branch of the Congress. 

Leaving Washington for the last time he made known 
his plans to me, and I gained the impression from his con- 
versation that he was free from all physical ailments and 
that he would return on the following Monday and apply 
himself even more energetically to his work as a Member 
of Congress than had marked his career up to that time, 
a condition almost unthinkable to those who were closely 
associated with him during the sessions of the Sixty-fifth 
Congress. 

[25] 



Memorial Addresses: Representative Robbins 

All of his well-conceived plans were frustrated, how- 
ever, for while awaiting trial of a case in which he was 
personally interested in the courts of Somerset County, 
Pa., he was stricken with the then prevailing disease of 
influenza, and although attended by the most skillful 
physicians that could be procured succumbed within one 
week to the ravages of the dreaded malady and gave up 
his life in the midst of brilliant achievements and with 
every promise of added laurels to the splendid record 
already made and gaining even greater honors than those 
already bestowed upon him. 

Our friend passed from us as suddenly as a star falls, so 

usual and yet so startling, 

A flash of the lightning, a break in the wave, 
Man passes from life to his rest in the grave. 

In his death we are reminded that — 

The thoughts we are thinking our fathers would think, 
From the death we are shrinking our fathers would shrink; 
To the life we are clinging they also would cling, 
But it speeds from us all, like a bird on the wing. 

The Members of the present Congress are familiar with 
his activities on the floor of the House. He was deeply 
interested in all public questions. He was at all times 
alive and alert and intensely active in all legislation affect- 
ing the people, and especially the soldiers of any of the 
wars in which this country was at any time engaged. 

He was a hard-working, painstaking legislator, his mind 
was keen and alert; his perceptive qualities were of a high 
order, his diction well-nigh perfect, and he was no mean 
antagonist to the army of ready, forceful debaters who 
have seen long service in the House. He had a fine com- 
mand of the English language and was making rapid 
strides to a commanding position in the work of the lower 
branch of Congress. He was a close student of govern- 
mental affairs and was a strong, consistent opponent to 
any form of extravagance, and it is but fair to say that he 

[26] 



Address of Mr. Rose, of Pennsylvania 

enlisted his splendid qualities in any movement looking to 
the betterment of the conditions of the people of the 
country. He was fair, yet outspoken and fearless; cou- 
rageous to a degree, yet never questioned the motive of his 
antagonist in any controversy in which he was engaged. 

He strongly favored equal service from all citizens and 
had no patience with those enjoying our rights and our 
liberties, our schools and other institutions in times of 
peace, with the privilege of protection and the right of 
gaining a fortune under our form of government, and yet 
unwilling to share the burdens thrust upon us during the 
stress of war. Against such conditions he was unalterably 
opposed, and allowed no opportunity to pass wherein he 
could denounce a system which would tolerate or counte- 
nance such anomaly, as he conceived it. Who will say 
that he was in error in taking a position so high and 
patriotic? 

He was in great demand as a public speaker throughout 
the congressional district which he so ably represented, 
and but a few days before stricken with his last illness 
was well received in a public address made before the 
firemen of his home city when a flag which was pre- 
sented to them by Mr. Robbins was unfurled. 

For his charitable acts he will be long remembered. He 
has left behind him a large circle of friends to mourn 
his loss. 

As one of the committee selected to attend the funeral 
services of the late Representative Robbins in Greensburg, 
Pa., I desire to note that the large concourse of people 
present on that occasion was a sure evidence of profound 
sorrow and realization of a great loss, so that I feel justi- 
fied in presenting his life as an example of true American 
manhood and worthy of emulation by all who love pa- 
triotism, righteousness, and truth. May he rest with his 
fathers in the peace he has earned. 



[27] 



Address of Mr. Stafford, of Wisconsin 

Mr. Speaker: It is not hyperbole of phrase but well de- 
served that of the many men whom I have known in the 
past 16 years representing the Keystone State in this House 
none gave greater promise of distinction than our late 
colleague, whose memory and work we assemble here to- 
day to honor. 

No death has shocked the House so generally as that of 
our dear friend Robbins. Only a week before he left here 
for the last time I had yielded time to him in general de- 
bate. He left here in apparent good health. No intima- 
tion that he was not in the best of health had reached us. 
Then came the sad news that appalled us all. 

Robbins in the brief span of one term had won a for- 
ward place in the work of the House. This position was 
of his own creating. His aptitude for and willingness to 
follow the details of legislation brought him this reward. 

As a manifest of the regard in which he was held, I wish 
to cite a conversation had about 10 weeks before his death 
with one of the leaders of the House in which I suggested 
the need of having a strong Committee on Expenditures in 
the next Congress to investigate the contracts and expen- 
ditures of the Government during the war. My friend 
Robbins was suggested as having the ability, the courage, 
and the willingness to undertake this exacting work. I 
heartily concurred that he would make an exceptional 
chairman. 

So many men come to Congress and are content in 
giving attention to the needs of their districts and to vote 
on measures that are presented from time to time. Not 
so with Robbins. He regarded service on the floor as of 
the first importance. He was in active attendance, no mat- 

[28] 



Address of Mr. Stafford, of Wisconsin 



ter how minor the legislation, contributing his best judg- 
ment through debate and by amendment to the subject 
before the House. And the greater surprise is that he 
worked so faithfully and earnestly though he had a com- 
petence that would have inclined the average Member to 
a life of ease. 

His essential strength was in having good business judg- 
ment as well as a trained legal mind. Rarely are Mem- 
bers so favorably equipped. His wide experience made 
him valuable on the floor and in committee during the 
consideration of the great business problems continually 
arising. 

Fluent in speech, ready in debate, full of valuable 
knowledge, in one brief term his training and willingness 
to work brought him distinction in House affairs. With 
the House under the control of the Republicans in the 
coming term, he was destined to gain further renown and 
distinction. 

The House and the country can ill spare such a con- 
scientious, earnest, and faithful public servant. I liked 
him much. He was an honest coworker, I am saddened 
when I think I shall not see his genial countenance again. 

Mr. Crago. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that 
all Members who desire to do so may have the privilege 
of extending and revising their remarks in the Record on 
the life, character, and public service of the late Member 
from Pennsylvania, Mr. Robbins. 

The Speaker pro tempore. Is there objection? [After a 
pause.] The Chair hears none. 

Then, in accordance with the resolution previously 
adopted, the House (at 5 o'clock and 20 minutes p. m.) 
adjourned until Monday, February 17, 1919, at 11 o'clock 



a. m. 



[29] 



Proceedings in the Senate 

Monday, January 27, 1919. 

A message from the House of Representatives, by J. C. 
South, its Chief Clerk, communicated to the Senate the 
intelligence of the death of Hon. Edward Everett Robbins, 
late a Representative from the State of Pennsylvania, and 
transmitted resolutions of the House thereon. 

Mr. Penrose. Mr. President, I ask that the resolutions 
received from the House of Representatives on the death 
of Hon. Edward Everett Robbins, late a Representative 
from the State of Pennsylvania, be laid before the Senate. 

The Vice President. The Chair lays before the Senate 
the resolutions from the House of Representatives, which 
will be read. 

The Secretary read the resolutions, as follows: 

In the House of Representatives, 

January 25, 1919. 

Resolved, That the House has heard with profound sorrow of 
the death of the Hon. Edward Everett Rorrins, a Representative 
from the State of Pennsylvania. 

Resolved, That a committee of 34 Members of the House, with 
such Members of the Senate as may be joined, be appointed to 
attend the funeral. 

Resolved, That the Sergeant at Arms of the House be authorized 
and directed to take such steps as may be necessary for carrying 
out the provisions of these resolutions, and that the necessary 
expenses in connection therewith be paid out of the contingent 
fund of the House. 

Resolved, That the Clerk communicate these resolutions to the 
Senate and transmit a copy thereof to the family of the deceased. 

Resolved, That as a further mark of respect this House do now 
adjourn. 



[31] 



Memorial Addresses: Representative Robbins 

Mr. Penrose. Mr. President, I offer the following resolu- 
tions, which I send to the desk and ask for their adoption. 

The resolutions (S. Res. 430) were read, considered by 
unanimous consent, and unanimously agreed to, as 
follows : 

Resolved, That the Senate has heard with profound sorrow the 
announcement of the death of the Hon. Edward Everett Rorbins, 
late a Representative from the State of Pennsylvania. 

Resolved, That a committee of seven Senators be appointed by 
the Vice President to join the committee appointed on the part of 
the House of Representatives to attend the funeral of the deceased. 

Resolved, That the Secretary communicate a copy of these reso- 
lutions to the House of Representatives. 

The Vice President, under the second resolution, ap- 
pointed Mr. Penrose, Mr. King, Mr. Overman, Mr. Watson, 
Mr. Baird, Mr. Thompson, and Mr. Knox the committee on 
the part of the Senate. 

Mr. Penrose. Mr. President, I move as a further mark of 
respect to the memory of the deceased Representative that 
the Senate do now adjourn. 

The motion was unanimously agreed to; and (at 4 
o'clock and 55 minutes p. m.) the Senate adjourned until 
to-morrow, January 28, 1919, at 12 o'clock meridian. 

Thursday, February 20, 1919. 

MESSAGE FROM THE HOUSE 

A message from the House of Representatives, by J. C. 
South, its Chief Clerk, transmitted to the Senate resolu- 
tions on the life, character, and public services of Hon. 
Edward E. Robbins, late a Representative from the State 
of Pennsylvania. 



[32] 



